Criminology & Remote Sensing

Looking at location:

 

Consider this: Why are certain residences often the focus of crime? Hot spots allow for analysis that is very detailed. Knowing who resides in dwellings which are known crime hot spots, enables tactical analysis of the people, and crime types. Strategy is developed. A plan to manage problem-individuals can be formed.

 

Life on the street:

 

Police analysts can take a slightly wider perspective in developing a patrol plan, extending to the streets which are hot spots. These may include areas that are not residential, but still problematic.

 

Know your neighbourhood:

 

This type of analysis often leads to additional perspective. Such a perspective aims to answer the questions: Why are deprived housing units often the target of burglaries, as oposed to rich country locations? What specific solutions are relevant? For example, would better lighting, CCTV cameras, further patrols or the implementation of a neighbourhood watch scheme help resolve the problem?

 

Urban planning and crime:

 

Plans to tackle crime at the city-level may involve changes in transportation, education provision, welfare or recreational policies. Solving problems at this level involves not only the police, but councils, local communities and even the government. A serious level of urban planning is required.

 

Repeat victimisation:

 

Unfortunately, the statistics indicate that once you are a victim, you are more likely to be one again. Some people are vulnerable victims, and are repeatedly targeted by criminals preying on their specific vulnerability. Statistical analysis also demonstrates that most victims of crime are likely to live within three miles of the offender. This problem can be tackled. Target hardening is one method by which police do this, by addressing the nature of specific vulnerabilities.  Interpreting hot spots for patterns of repeat victimisation enable the police and other agencies to ensure that those who are most vulnerable  and most at risk of being exploited are effectively safeguarded.

 

 

Hot spot analysis requires regular review to be effective.